hope |həʊp| noun [ mass noun ]1 a feeling of expectation and desire for a particular thing to happen: She prayed for hope for the hurting.
My heart has been particularly burdened over the past year with the many racial and religious attacks happening both in our own nation and across the world. When the attacks hit the heart of my own city of Dallas last year, I was awakened to just how brutal we can be as a human race when we allow fear, pride and ignorance to lead us.
The attacks in Barcelona, several weeks ago, devastated me as I saw places in the news where I was visiting on vacation only a year ago, last July. When we are connected to a people or a place that experiences devastating loss, it pulls at our hearts and emotions in a very real way.
“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
I was just in Houston last week setting up our new MINT office in Heights, just before Hurricane Harvey hit last weekend. As a matter of fact, a few of our offices have been affected by the floods and we are still trying to access the damage. I’ve been watching the news and daily keeping up with our friends there to make sure they are all okay and receiving the help they need. It was devastating to watch them lose everything– but in some ways, the news reports I have been watching have almost brought a sense of hope back to humanity.
Since the hurricane hit, I have not seen or heard of one racial riot or any attacks on the character and motives of our political groups or leaders. All I can find when I scroll through the news, are stories of heroism and help for those who have experienced devastating tragedy and loss. What a beautiful thing it is when we all are reminded of our own humanity.
This week, in Houston, there was no mention of race, color or ethnicity. There was no right wing or left wing debate on political agenda. There was only help and healing for mankind. I saw a video of a human chain of all races and colors linking together in a roaring river of water to reach one elderly African American man who was trapped in his car. This group of people risked their lives and unified themselves together for one common purpose: to help an individual in need.
“Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.” Ephesians 4:2-3
I don’t hope or pray for devastating tragedies like Hurricane Harvey, in fact–I pray against them. But I am humbled and grateful for the beautiful, subtle reminder of human virtue and love for all. Let us not forget that we are all human, and all in need of something. Let us not forget that love is the answer, and fear and pride our downfall. Let us love deeply, and continue to pray for those around the world who experience death and loss each day.
If you would like to give or donate financially, please visit: www.convoyofhope.org
“But you, O LORD, are a shield around me; you are my glory, the one who holds my head high. I cried out to the LORD, and He answered me from His holy mountain. I lay down and slept, and I woke up in safety, for the LORD is watching over me. I am not afraid, for You are with me.” Psalms 3:3-6
My love and prayers go out to all who are hurting this week. God’s peace and safety be with you all! As I continue to pray for Houston and the recovery of this great city, I believe Houston will be stronger than ever. Also, I believe we serve God best when serving others. This last week, Mint sent a truck to Houston with supplies for those in need. We will be making another delivery this week as well.
To all of our Mint Family in Houston- Field and I have been praying hard for YOU! Together, we rise. We love you.
XO-
Sabrina